Annie Watson writes: I came to know Neil Kearney (obituary, 27 November) through my work as trade union co-ordinator with the Ethical Trading Initiative. He campaigned tirelessly to improve the conditions of workers in the garment industry, but did so in a humorous way, even when negotiating with the most obstinate of employers.

My favourite story was one he told about dealing with Asian factory owners who claimed that they could not afford to raise wages. "Show me your bicycles," was his response to them, saying that if he saw bicycles in the management car park instead of expensive cars, he might take their pleas seriously. He was an inspiration to many who will continue to campaign for a fair deal for all supply-chain workers.